The fickle weather is hampering sporting events all around the world at present, however, the biggest impact is being felt in New York with rain stopping play for two consecutive days. Punters are not left to bet on when play is going to resume rather than on who will win. You can now back a Monday men’s final at odds of 4/6 and a women’s final on Sunday at 4/5.

It’s unfortunate since the tournament was entering the interesting stage. There is already criticism from players, particularly Rafael Nadal, over the way officials are handling these delays. He was forced onto the court for all of ten minutes before play had to again come to a stop. His criticism surrounds the playing conditions – wet court, wet balls, and ominous skies – and the players safety in those conditions. Fair criticism considering a twisted ankle or knee could see them out of action for a month or more.

For some players, rain breaks their momentum, so I would tread cautiously when betting on the next set of matches to be played. The match between Roger Federer and Jo-Wilfred Tsonga looks to be an interesting example. Federer may well appreciate the break while Tsonga would perhaps have preferred to face him following a tough match. Federer is 2/5 to win while Tsonga is now out to 9/4. With players perhaps forced to play four matches in four days now, Federer may just be a risk in the semi-finals and finals.

The extended break will suit Murray and Djokovic, and we’re leaning back towards Andy Murray. Djokovic still has a suspect shoulder, and four matches of final quality over four days may test that out. Murray, on the other hand looks fit and does seem to play his best when under this sort of pressure. Djokovic has eased to almost even money in US Open betting while Murray has firmed slightly to second favourite at 11/2. Federer and Nadal have both eased out to 6/1 – certainly good odds for Nadal if he can get back on court. Murray at 11/2 is our tip.